Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW) volunteer Noel Parkinson of Caringbah South has been awarded for almost a quarter of century of helping keep the boating community safe on local waterways.
It was an honour to presented Noel with the NSW Community Service Award at MRNSW’s Hungry Point base.
Noel joined the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard in 2001 and continued to serve in several roles as the organisation became Marine Rescue NSW. Noel has played a vital role in countless search and rescue missions as a Coxswain and Watch Officer, been Commander of the Botany Port Hacking unit and now serves as an Admin Officer and the Returning Officer.
The award is presented as a thank you from the community of NSW for what Noel has done over almost 25 years as a committed volunteer.
He has previously been honoured by Marine Rescue NSW with life membership and having rescue vessel Botany Backing 32 named after him.
Noel is on the verge of adding 25 years of service in maritime rescue to his distinguished 40 year career as a NSW police officer.
It’s important as a community that we recognise unsung heroes like Noel who do so much for the community as volunteers.
Our boating community and his colleagues can be thankful for the experience, leadership and unwavering commitment Noel has brought to keeping boaties safe on our waterways.
I thank and acknowledge Noel and all his fellow MRNSW volunteers who give their time to serve and help protect our community.